New Caritas chief buckles down to work

Newly-appointed Caritas Internationalis administrator Dr. Pier Francisco Pinelli stressed that he will abide with his duties for the next six months as the temporary leader of the Catholic charity arm ahead of their scheduled General Assembly in May next year.

The leadership shakeup effectively demoted Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle as president of Caritas Internationalis to being the liaison of the new administrator.

Pinelli said in a statement by Caritas Internationalis that his predecessor will have a major duty to connect with Caritas member -organizations and other churches during the period of reorganization.

“Cardinal Tagle represents a point of reference for my work and his support is precious to ensure that all Caritas members participate in this journey,” Pinelli said.

Caritas Internationalis said that the restructuring of leadership aims to address the coordination between their member -organizations in bringing help to their respective localities:

“The renewal of Caritas Internationalis is part of the ecclesial reform promoted by Pope Francis, which includes the overhaul of all the institutions so that they can, each according to its purpose, concretely serve the

Church’s mission,” the organization said.

Pinelli also said that his leadership will implement new managerial strategies that will bring long-term improvements in the organization as they assist in aid for people affected in several crises around the world:

“Humanitarian crises such as the

Covid-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, the effects of climate change and the very serious and pervasive food insecurity call for a reinforcement of our accompaniment of the Caritas organizations,” the temporary administrator said.